Nine Entertainment CEO exits from the network after almost four years of leadership
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The media landscape is often as dramatic and fast-paced as the stories it covers.
With multiple news of departures and changes in career paths, networks are facing a shift in the industry.
Major network Nine Entertainment is no exception to these changes, as the media conglomerate's recent announcement shocked its viewers.
Nine Entertainment's current Chief Executive Officer, Mike Sneesby, announced his departure after almost four years of leadership.
His exit, slated for 30 September, sent ripples through the industry and raised questions about the company's direction.
Sneesby decided to pursue new opportunities for 2025.
In a heartfelt email sent to his staff, he reflected on the past year as 'one of the most challenging' in his career.
'Despite the intensity of the scrutiny, my focus has not wavered from achieving the best outcomes for our people and Nine,' he wrote.
'I am extremely proud of what we have achieved together over this time and consider myself privileged to work with the incredibly talented team we have at Nine.'
Sneesby's tenure as CEO had its fair share of achievements and tumultuous challenges.
His leadership navigated the company through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under Sneesby's guidance, Nine Entertainment subsidiaries Channel 9, streaming service Stan, radio stations 2GB and 3AW, and newspapers such as The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age saw substantial growth.
Thanks to his efforts, Stan turned into a powerhouse streaming service, now with over two million subscribers.
During his tenure, Nine also secured broadcasting rights to the Olympic Games until 2032.
His decision to carry the Olympic torch in Paris—a privilege tied to the broadcasting rights—came at a time of internal strife.
Staff strikes over pay and conditions highlighted the discontent among employees.
The strikes, which took place in July, followed earlier controversies, including complaints against a former senior news boss.
Nine Chair Catherine West expressed her gratitude for Sneesby's contributions.
'As chief executive officer, his achievements include guiding the company out of the challenging COVID-19 pandemic, securing the rights to the Olympic Games through to 2032 and progressing the strategic and cultural transformation of Nine,' Ms West said.
'It's also important to acknowledge Mike's immense contribution to the success of Stan, building a successful streaming service that now boasts a broad entertainment and sports footprint.'
Sneesby's sudden departure sparked speculation about the future of Nine Entertainment.
As the company prepares for a transition, Chief Finance and Strategy Officer Matt Stanton stepped up as the acting CEO from 1 October.
Stanton—with his extensive experience in media and a deep understanding of transformation programs—should ensure stability and continuity for Nine during this period.
What do you think about this sudden change in Nine? What does this mean for modern Australian media? Share your opinions and insights with us in the comments below.
With multiple news of departures and changes in career paths, networks are facing a shift in the industry.
Major network Nine Entertainment is no exception to these changes, as the media conglomerate's recent announcement shocked its viewers.
Nine Entertainment's current Chief Executive Officer, Mike Sneesby, announced his departure after almost four years of leadership.
His exit, slated for 30 September, sent ripples through the industry and raised questions about the company's direction.
Sneesby decided to pursue new opportunities for 2025.
After consulting his family, Nine Entertainment CEO Mike Sneesby will exit the company for new opportunities. Image Credit: The Sydney Morning Herald/Dominic Lorrimer
In a heartfelt email sent to his staff, he reflected on the past year as 'one of the most challenging' in his career.
'Despite the intensity of the scrutiny, my focus has not wavered from achieving the best outcomes for our people and Nine,' he wrote.
'I am extremely proud of what we have achieved together over this time and consider myself privileged to work with the incredibly talented team we have at Nine.'
Sneesby's tenure as CEO had its fair share of achievements and tumultuous challenges.
His leadership navigated the company through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under Sneesby's guidance, Nine Entertainment subsidiaries Channel 9, streaming service Stan, radio stations 2GB and 3AW, and newspapers such as The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age saw substantial growth.
Thanks to his efforts, Stan turned into a powerhouse streaming service, now with over two million subscribers.
During his tenure, Nine also secured broadcasting rights to the Olympic Games until 2032.
His decision to carry the Olympic torch in Paris—a privilege tied to the broadcasting rights—came at a time of internal strife.
Staff strikes over pay and conditions highlighted the discontent among employees.
The strikes, which took place in July, followed earlier controversies, including complaints against a former senior news boss.
Nine Chair Catherine West expressed her gratitude for Sneesby's contributions.
'As chief executive officer, his achievements include guiding the company out of the challenging COVID-19 pandemic, securing the rights to the Olympic Games through to 2032 and progressing the strategic and cultural transformation of Nine,' Ms West said.
'It's also important to acknowledge Mike's immense contribution to the success of Stan, building a successful streaming service that now boasts a broad entertainment and sports footprint.'
Sneesby's sudden departure sparked speculation about the future of Nine Entertainment.
As the company prepares for a transition, Chief Finance and Strategy Officer Matt Stanton stepped up as the acting CEO from 1 October.
Stanton—with his extensive experience in media and a deep understanding of transformation programs—should ensure stability and continuity for Nine during this period.
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